German Precious Metal Purity Law (FeinGehG)

The German Precious Metal Purity Law (Gesetz über den Feingehalt der Gold- und Silberwaren, abbreviated FeinGehG) was enacted in 1884 and came into effect in 1888. The law defines the minimum precious metal content that a product must have to be officially marked and sold as gold or silver goods in Germany.

Under the law, items must contain at least 585 parts per thousand of gold (equivalent to 14 karat) or 800 parts per thousand of silver to be hallmarked. Although the law has undergone only minor amendments since its introduction, it remains the legal standard in Germany for hallmarking and fineness marking of precious metal items.

The FeinGehG is particularly relevant for manufacturers, retailers, and assay offices and ensures consumer protection and product integrity in the German precious metals market. Products that do not meet the required standards may not legally bear purity marks or be marketed as "gold" or "silver."